CHARGERS: Matchups vs. Philadelphia Eagles

This is a matchup of a big-play offense and an opportunistic
defense. The Eagles' aggressive style has wreaked havoc this
season, recording 27 sacks, 15 interceptions and seven lost fumbles
thus far. Their rush scheme is innovative, as pressure comes from
all directions. They're stout against the rush and pass, but
Philadelphia's aggressiveness can be exploited at times. Too many
pass rushers can create one-on-one situations for WRs Vincent
Jackson and Malcom Floyd. The Eagles account for that with a pair
of shutdown corners in Asante Samuel and Sheldon Brown. That means
QB Philip Rivers will look to TE Antonio Gates and RB Darren
Sproles ---- a pair of receivers that present mismatch problems for
most any team. Any semblance of a running game will take pressure
off the pass rush and should allow the Chargers to score
touchdowns. Whether that happens is anyone's guess.

Edge: Even

Chargers on defense

This matchup pits strength versus strength. The Eagles score via
the big play, and the Chargers have proven adept at stopping it.
The Chargers defense has given up just two plays over 20 yards in
the last three games, thanks in large part to a secondary that has
come into its own. The Eagles feature speedsters DeSean Jackson and
Jeremy Maclin, but the Chargers have the corners to cover them.
Antonio Cromarite is among the fastest players in the NFL, and has
turned into a cover corner. CB Quentin Jammer makes up for a lack
of raw speed with smart, physical play. The edge will come down to
the Eagles running game, which will feature LeSean McCoy and
all-purpose back Brian Westbrook. If the Chargers can slow them
down and make the Eagles grind out scores, they can control the
tempo.

Edge: Even

Special teams

The Chargers specialists are among the best, although kickoff
coverage has suffered due to injury and a lack of depth in K Nate
Keading's kickoffs. Eagles K David Akers has missed three field
goals but is perfect within 40 yards. Maclin will return kicks for
Philadelphia, and adds explosiveness to the return game. Darren
Sproles has been a solid returner with a penchant for the big play.
Teams have been avoiding him, which often results in solid field
position.

Edge: Chargers

What to expect

A physical, entertaining matchup. Both defenses will force
mistakes and both offenses will connect on big plays, but the
Chargers will make a few more good plays than bad. That fact, the
Chargers re-emerging confidence and a rocking crowd at Qualcomm
Stadium will push the Bolts to their fourth-straight win